Dissection of Oncogenic KRAS Signalling during Pancreatic Cancer Development

A fully funded PhD position is available from June 2017 in the Institute Translational Medicine, University of Liverpool, under the supervision of Dr Pedro Perez-Mancera.

Pancreatic Ductal Adenocarcinoma (PDAC) is an almost uniformly lethal disease. Despite progress towards a better understanding of the molecular basis of PDAC pathogenesis, the pathways critical for PDAC maintenance remain poorly defined, preventing progress towards targeted interventions.

Conducting an in vivo Sleeping Beauty transposon-mediated insertional mutagenesis screen, we have identified genes and signalling pathways that cooperate with oncogenic Kras during PDAC progression. This screen has shown that the PI3K/Akt signalling pathway is frequently activated during PDAC progression, giving unbiased genetic evidence that activation of the PI3K/Akt pathway is required for PDAC development.

The overall goal of this project is to investigate the role of PI3K/AKT signalling pathway in PDAC development. Using novel mouse models of pancreatic cancer, combined with newly developed 3D culture systems and omics approaches, we aim to identify mediators by which the PI3K/AKT signalling pathways sustain PDAC development. We will also analyse human PDAC specimens to confirm the clinical relevance of our findings, establishing the molecular basis for novel opportunities for pharmacological interventions.

The Institute of Translational Medicine is fully committed to promoting gender equality in all activities. In recruitment we emphasize the supportive nature of the working environment and the flexible family support that the University provides. The Institute holds a silver Athena SWAN award in recognition of on-going commitment to ensuring that the Athena SWAN principles are embedded in its activities and strategic initiatives.

Qualifications and Experience
We are looking for creative and highly motivated graduates. Candidates should hold or be expected to obtain a First or Upper Second class Honours degree (or equivalent) or a Master’s degree in a relevant Biological subject, such as Biochemistry, Molecular Biology, Cell Biology or Biomedical Sciences.

Applications
To apply for this opportunity please email [Email Address Removed] quoting PhD Studentship in the email subject with:
• 2 page CV
• Expression of interest
• 2 references